DIY Pet Treats for Valentine’s Day and Beyond!
Your pet doesn’t care about Valentine’s Day, but what doesn’t escape their notice comes in a heart-shaped box. Indeed, chocolates are ubiquitous this time of year and pets have a certain proclivity for seeking them out. Once you put away all the goodies, what’s left? You can still celebrate this annual celebration of love by making your very own DIY pet treats. With our recipes for heart-shaped yummies, your pet can safely participate in the holiday. You might even be surprised at how satisfied your pet will be!
Get Some!
There are some pretty great recipes out there. When it comes to DIY pet treats, it really helps to know exactly what your pet prefers. Some are easy going about flavors, others (we’re looking at you, cats) only go for a select few. If you see a recipe you want to try but it calls for an ingredient your pet won’t enjoy, substitute the item for one you know your pet loves.
A Word On Calories
While the below-listed recipes for DIY pet treats are full of healthy nutrition, that doesn’t mean your pet should eat a bunch of these in one sitting. If you’ve been diligent lately about counting your pet’s daily caloric intake, be sure to subtract from your pet’s meal portions when they enjoy a treat. That way, they can still benefit from feeling spoiled without being vulnerable to weight gain.
Save Time and Money
DIY pet treats are a great way to save money at the store. Most of our recipes call for items that you may already have in your pantry. They can also save time by lasting for a good amount of time. Be sure to store them in an airtight container, or freeze the dough and bake as needed.
DIY Pet Treats for the Ages
To really embrace and celebrate Valentine’s Day, we recommend picking up a heart-shaped cookie cutter or heart-shaped molds.
For these perfectly delightful frozen yogurt treats, you’ll need:
- 1 Banana
- Frozen or fresh strawberries (about a handful)
- 2 Tablespoons of unsweetened plain yogurt
Blend the ingredients until creamy and pour into molds or ice cube trays. When frozen, offer one to your dog. Prepare to be asked for more (and more).
Include your kitty in the festivities with this tried and true recipe:
- 1 Cooked chicken breast
- 1 Cup quick oats
- 1 Egg
- 1 Heaping Tablespoon ground catnip
- ¼ Cup flour
- ⅓ Cup water
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Mix the first four ingredients in the food processor, adding water to fully incorporate. Transfer to a mixing bowl, add flour, then knead on a floured counter top. Roll out until dough is about half-inch thick, and cut with a heart-shaped cookie cutter. Bake for about 20 minutes, then cool for the same amount of time.
Don’t Forget These Recipes
We also recommend these DIY pet treats for kitties or these tasty Valentine’s Day pup treats.
If you have any questions or concerns about Valentine’s Day pet safety, toxic foods to avoid (ahem, chocolate), and other ways to integrate your pet into the festivities, please call us at (210) 681-1391. From all of us at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital, have a safe, happy, and love-filled Valentine’s Day!